Which feature allowed for guaranteed minimum throughput data rates in DOCSIS 1.1?

The feature that allowed for guaranteed minimum throughput data rates in DOCSIS 1.1 is the implementation of Quality of Service (QoS) protocols. QoS is crucial in managing network resources by prioritizing certain types of data over others, ensuring that more time-sensitive information—such as voice and video—receives the necessary bandwidth to maintain performance. This means that a minimum level of throughput can be assured for specific types of traffic, even in situations where the overall network may be congested. By defining these performance thresholds, DOCSIS 1.1 could meet the demands of users requiring consistent and reliable service for applications like streaming media, thus enhancing the overall user experience on broadband networks.

The other options do not directly correlate to the guarantee of minimum throughput data rates. Dynamic bandwidth allocation refers to the ability to allocate bandwidth based on demand dynamically but does not inherently provide a guaranteed minimum. Enhanced security measures focus primarily on protecting data from unauthorized access rather than throughput. Signal strength monitoring is essential for maintaining network reliability but does not influence data rate guarantees directly.